Apple boss 'did not jump queue for transplant'

Fair treatment: Apple chief executive Steve Jobs had advanced liver disease when he had the operation

Apple chief executive Steve Jobs had a liver transplant because he was "the sickest patient on the list" and not because he queue-jumped, his doctor said today.

The 54-year-old underwent the operation about two months ago in Tennessee, and it was suggested he had been fast-tracked because of his position.

In the US, 15,771 people are waiting for a liver transplant, but the Methodist University Hospital insisted Mr Jobs was given priority according to policy.

Its chief of transplantation, James Eason, said his patient had "end-stage" liver disease at the time he had the operation and added: "Mr Jobs is now recovering well and has an excellent prognosis."

Apple shares have fluctuated in the last few years amid speculation about Mr Jobs's health.

The executive, considered by many investors to be the driving force behind Apple's reputation for innovation, was treated in 2004 for a rare form of pancreatic cancer. He then appeared gaunt at an Apple event in the summer of last year, sparking rumour about his health.

Mr Jobs is due to return to work at the end of this month, according to Apple.